News Release

US Department of Labor awards nearly $32 million to provide training and employment services to formerly incarcerated juveniles and women

WASHINGTON  The U.S. Department of Labor today awarded nearly $32 million in grants to 12 community-based organizations that will provide job training, education and support services to formerly incarcerated youth and women.

"For formerly incarcerated women and young people, reintegrating with society can be difficult. With the right support system, however, this transition can be made smoother and more successful," said acting Secretary of Labor Seth D. Harris. "Today's grants will help prepare these women and young people for employment and a fresh start in life."

Four grants totaling approximately $20 million will serve formerly incarcerated youth, ages 14 and above, in high-poverty, high-crime communities. Grantees will help ensure these youth succeed in the labor market by providing education and training that will lead to high school diploma and/or industry-recognized credentials. The grantees will emphasize skills development in high-demand industries and occupations available within their local communities. The four grantees are expected to serve approximately 4,100 youth in 31 communities across the country.

The remaining eight grants total nearly $12 million and will serve youths and adults who demonstrate characteristics most common to female former offenders. The goal of these grants is to provide employment-focused services and support to help participants overcome traumas like physical and sexual abuse, family turmoil, mental health and substance abuse and other barriers to successful reintegration to society. Grantees must use an integrated strategy that includes empowerment and self-development, workforce development, and education. While female ex-offenders are the focus of these grants, the grants may serve male ex-offenders as well.